William "Earl" Willis

RALEIGH - William “Earl” Willis, born Nov. 25, 1936, Earl was surrounded by family when he passed on Nov. 9, 2022. Earl lived his entire life in Raleigh, NC, spending the last 68 years with his forever soulmate, Elois Anderson. He was preceded in death by his parents (Lillie and Carlie Willis), sister (Ann Brown), and daughter (Sandra Doncaster).

Loyal and hard working, Earl’s co-workers often called him Earlybird. He was known for always learning something new and was sought for his sound advice. He never missed an opportunity for a witty joke. Earl and Elois made a lot of family memories at Holden Beach. In retirement, they traveled to all 50 states, often taking back roads to see national parks.

In providing for his family, Earl spent well over 40 years designing roads with NCDOT and TGS Engineers. He earned the prestigious title of Professional Engineer in 1984. His service to family, community, and country also included 28 years in the NC National Guard where he attained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 (ret.).

When telling his story, Earl wrote “I must admit that I am pleased with my life and my family. I have much more than I ever dreamed was possible when I was young. In reality Elois and I both came from poor families (even in that era), but we did not know that we were poor. Dedication, hard work and teamwork can accomplish much.” His children and grandchildren are grateful for both the bounty and the lessons from his well-lived life.

Earl is survived by his wife Elois; daughter, Andrea (Henry) Kidd; five grandchildren, Kristen (Aaron) Lancaster, Katie (Mike) Dotson, Rob (fiancee Megan) Pelon, Sarah (Quintin) Caldwell, Jesse (Philip) Coffey; and five great-granddaughters.

An open service will be held at 11am on Friday, Nov. 18, at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 831 Wake Forest Rd, Raleigh. To attend virtually, please click the “Watch Event” link under the “Events” tab, located at the bottom of this online obituary.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the NCNGA Scholarship Fund by sending a check payable to Tarheel Minuteman Foundation, 7410 Chapel Hill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607. Include ‘Earl and Elois Willis Memorial Scholarship’ in the memo line.

A service of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, Raleigh.